PHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF NIDRA AND ITS RELEVANCE IN MODERN LIFESTYLE DISORDERS

Abstract

Background: Nidra is one of the three pillars of life described in Ayurveda, along with Ahara and Brahmacharya. Proper Nidra is essential for maintaining normal physiological functions of the body and mind. In the present era, rapid lifestyle changes, night-shift work, excessive screen exposure, stress, and irregular daily routines have significantly disturbed natural sleep patterns, leading to a rise in modern lifestyle disorders. Aim: To study the physiological basis of Nidra as described in Ayurveda and to explore its relevance and correlation with modern lifestyle disorders. Objectives: To explain the concept and physiological mechanism of Nidra according to Ayurveda. To understand the role of Dosha, Manas, and Indriya in the regulation of sleep. To correlate Nidra Vaishamya with common modern lifestyle disorders. Materials and Methods: A conceptual and literary review was carried out using classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with relevant modern physiology and sleep science literature. Descriptive analysis was used to correlate classical concepts with modern understanding. Results: Physiologically, Nidra occurs due to the dominance of Kapha Dosha, fatigue of Indriya, withdrawal of Manas, and nourishment of the nervous system. Disturbance in these factors leads to Nidra Vaishamya, manifesting as insufficient or excessive sleep. Such disturbances are closely associated with lifestyle disorders like obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: Proper Nidra is fundamental for physiological balance, mental well-being, and disease prevention. Understanding the Ayurvedic physiology of Nidra provides valuable insights into managing and preventing modern lifestyle disorders through simple measures like regulated sleep timing, healthy routines, and Swasthavritta practices.